MUSIC MATTERS TO YOUR CUSTOMERS
86% WOULD RETURN TO AN ESTABLISHMENT IF THEY LIKED THE FEATURED LIVE MUSIC
86% WOULD RECOMMEND THE ESTABLISHMENT IF THEY ENJOY THE MUSIC
80% SAY THAT MOST OF THE RESTAURANTS AND BARS THEY FREQUENT HAVE MUSIC PLAYING
NEARLY 70% OF MILLENNIALS SAID THAT HAVING NO MUSIC NEGATIVELY IMPACTS THEIR EXPERIENCE
AND RESTAURANT OWNERS WEIGH IN 89% OF MILLENNIALS SAID THAT GOOD MUSIC MAKES A MORE MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE
WITH LIVE MUSIC (…) THERE WERE MORE LIQUOR SALES, AND THAT’S A 75% PROFIT MARGIN.
THE MORE UPBEAT, THE BETTER CHANCE FOR AN UPSELL, THE BETTER CHANCE THEY WANT TO STAY A LITTLE LONGER.
COLORADO AND UTAH
-THOMAS OWNER, FAMILY ITALIAN RESTAURANT ATLANTA, GA
-CHRISTOPHER VINEYARD OWNER AND TASTING ROOM OPERATOR LOS ANGELES, CA
COVER IMAGE T o ivers o ee
PUBLISHER
MICHAEL POLITZ Michael.Politz@fbmagazine.com
DIRECTOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
LAUREN KANE Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com
SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER
SHELBY POLITZ Shelby.Politz@fbmagazine.co
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMATIC SALES
BARB ROGERS Programmatic@fbmagazine.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
SUSAN GOLD Susan.Gold@fbmagazine.com
AMANDA DAY Amanda.Day@fbmagazine.co
LENORE O’MEARA Lenore.Omeara@fbmagazine.co
ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH Eleina@fbmagazine.co
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
MICHAEL POLITZ
STEPHANIE BLITZ
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
LAUREN MCINDOO
LENORE O’MEARA DEBBIE HALL
ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH SUSAN GOLD
SHELBY POLITZ
ETHAN BALSAMO
RYAN SLATTERY
We honor and remember the support of Chef Kerry Simon, Gary Cantor, Robin Leach, Chef Paul Prudhomme, & Gary Coles
Two Rivers Coffee is elevating the coffee pod experience through a new partnership with Kellanova
Ready to Embark on a Unique Coffee Pod Journey? Discover the Unparalleled Experience of Two Rivers Coffee
In the ever-evolving world of coffee, few brands have managed to blend innovation with fun flavors as seamlessly as Two Rivers Coffee. Established in 2012, this family-run coffee roaster was a pioneer in the burgeoning coffee pods market. They distinguished themselves with small-batch craft roasting and a wide array of flavors, aiming to dominate the pod market with their expertise and variety.
Two Rivers Coffee has a history of successful partnerships with iconic food and beverage brands, resulting in beloved products like Junior Mints hot chocolate, Cella’s chocolate cherry flavored coffee, and Cold Stone Creamery flavored coffee. Now, they have taken a significant step forward by partnering
with Kellanova to create a breakfast-inspired delight—Eggo Waffle flavored coffees. This collaboration, brokered by Beanstalk and Tucker Brand, perfectly combines the comforting taste of freshly toasted Eggo waffles with the rich, aromatic notes of premium coffee.
This delightful fusion of two breakfast favorites promises to redefine the morning routine, giving busy adults the boost they need to get their kids out the door or a nostalgic moment to savor. Eggo Coffee combines the irresistible taste of freshly toasted, golden Eggo waffles with the rich, aromatic notes of premium coffee. Now mornings will be even easier, letting parents embrace small wins with Eggo waffles for the kids and Eggo Coffee for themselves
“Many of us have fond memories of eating Eggo waffles throughout our childhood, and now, there’s a whole new way to indulge in a taste of that nostalgia--with an added boost of caffeine--thanks to our Eggo Coffee...” said Sam Blaney,
“Many of us have fond memories of eating Eggo waffles throughout our childhood, and now, there’s a whole new way to indulge in a taste of that nostalgia--with an added boost of caffeine--thanks to our Eggo Coffee,” said Sam Blaney, director of marketing for Two Rivers Coffee. “Inspired by classic Eggo waffle flavors and the rich taste of Two Rivers coffee, each cup is infused with a unique flavor that pairs perfectly with your favorite breakfast. We are sure this will fly off supermarket shelves and cannot wait for fans to get a taste soon.”
The Eggo Coffee collection includes five delicious flavors: Maple Syrup Eggo, Vanilla Eggo Coffee, Cinnamon Toast Eggo, Blueberry Eggo, and Chocolate Chip Eggo. These amazing coffee will be available in Keurig-compatible cups and ground bagged coffee by mid-August, just in time for National Waffle Day on August 24 and the back-to-school season, providing a delightful solution for busy mornings.
Beyond their innovative flavors and strategic partnerships, Two Rivers Coffee remains committed to sustainability. Since December 2019, they have been producing 100% recyclable
pods, demonstrating their dedication to eco-friendly practices. CEO and founder Eugene Schriber emphasizes, “We pay premium prices for our coffee beans to ensure that our coffee comes from fair and renewable sources. Many of our products are Fair Trade certified, guaranteeing fair prices, sustainable farming practices, and community development.” Speaking with farmers and pickers gives them extra insight and guidance for each type of bean they roast.
Behind every cup of Two Rivers Coffee lies a tale of dedication and passion. The company has been committed to sustainability from the outset. They visit coffee farms to forge relationships with growers and utilize mills that use eco-friendly practices. Two Rivers Coffee believes that its focus on sustainable practices at the farm level help make both financial and agricultural stability a reality for growers and their families. “This is just one of the reasons that many of our products are Fair Trade certified. Being Fair Trade certified means our beans are sourced responsibly, guaranteeing fair prices, sustainable farming practices, and community development,” says Mr. Schriber. Their commitment to these principles is unwavering, reflecting a deep respect for the people and environments involved in their supply chain.
We pay premium prices for our coffee beans to ensure that our coffee comes from fair and renewable sources.
Two Rivers Coffee’s extensive portfolio, which includes over 250 different flavors, has made them a leading destination for flavored coffee, cocoa, and teas. Their meticulous approach to flavoring ensures that each product authentically reflects the original taste of its brand partners.
As they continue to expand their flavor offerings and enhance their commitment to sustainability, Two Rivers Coffee invites coffee aficionados to explore their diverse and delightful
range. Ready to explore a world of flavors? Look no further than Two Rivers Coffee. With over 300 tantalizing flavors and a commitment to quality that’s second to none, they’re not just brewing coffee; they’re crafting an experience.
Discover the world of Two Rivers Coffee at www.tworiversdirect.com and prepare to embark on a flavor-filled journey like no other.
Two Rivers Coffee’s extensive portfolio, which includes over 250 different flavors, has made them a leading destination for flavored coffee, cocoa, and teas. Their meticulous approach to flavoring ensures that each product authentically reflects the original taste of its brand partners.
COVER IMAGE
Jennifer Garner, John Foraker and Cassandra Curtis, Co-Founder s of Once Upon a Farm
PUBLISHER
MICHAEL POLITZ Michael.Politz@fbmagazine.com
DIRECTOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
LAUREN KANE Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com
SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER
SHELBY POLITZ Shelby.Politz@fbmagazine.co
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMATIC SALES
BARB ROGERS Programmatic@fbmagazine.com
ACCOUNT MANAGERS
SUSAN GOLD Susan.Gold@fbmagazine.com
AMANDA DAY Amanda.Day@fbmagazine.co
LENORE O’MEARA Lenore.Omeara@fbmagazine.co
ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH Eleina@fbmagazine.co
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
MICHAEL POLITZ
STEPHANIE BLITZ
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
LAUREN MCINDOO
LENORE O’MEARA DEBBIE HALL
ELEINA MAHGEREFTEH
SUSAN GOLD
SHELBY POLITZ
ETHAN BALSAMO
RYAN SLATTERY
We honor and remember the support of Chef Kerry Simon, Gary Cantor, Robin Leach, Chef Paul Prudhomme, & Gary Coles
... there was a brand that revolutionized
childhood nutrition
Broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, and even kale— getting your little ones to eat and love their veggies has never been easier. Thanks to Once Upon A Farm’s one-of-a-kind recipes, eating healthy never tasted so good! As a leader in the baby food category, this brand has earned the trust of consumers and positively impacted countless lives. Accomplishments such as these require having all the right ingredients, including the right people.
The Once Upon A Farm story began with a mother’s desire to feed her baby the very best food without having to sacrifice taste or convenience. Cassandra Curtis couldn’t find what she was looking for at her local supermarket, so she began creating her own recipes and selling the first cold-pressed baby food at retail.
“It really started with my own personal dilemma in the kitchen. I was making my baby’s food from scratch and as a working mom, finding the time to plan, shop, chop, blend, and freeze proved to be a real challenge,” said Curtis. “I so badly wanted to be able to just go to the store and buy something fresh and convenient that were like these amazing recipes I was making at home.”
Curtis eventually joined forces with industry legend and former Annie’s CEO John Foraker and actress, philanthropist, and mom of
three, Jennifer Garner, to create the next generation childhood nutrition company. Since its inception in 2015, this brand with humble beginnings and visions of grandeur is now sold in more than 13,000 stores nationwide with a growing product portfolio of organic, farmfresh snacks and meals for babies, toddlers, and big kids. Just like the Once Upon A Farm products, the partnership was formed in a very organic way.
Foraker had been working with Annie’s for a long time and taking the lead on that business in the US. It was a predominantly kid-focused brand known for its mac n’ cheese, cookies, and crackers. Through many years of research, Foraker got to know what was going on in the households of consumers that had little ones — making it clear that the products in the baby aisle were not meeting their needs. The fact that an individual could buy fresh food for their pet but not for their infant was pretty unbelievable.
In 2017, Foraker’s search for a company that was making headway in this particular market led him to discover the amazing products Curtis was making at Once Upon A Farm. It didn’t take long for Foraker to recognize the amazing opportunity that existed and he made the decision to become one of the company’s largest investors, doing everything he could to help the brand become a success.
“Our mission is to drive systemic change in childhood nutrition for a happier, healthier and more equitable world. Very few companies get to where we are in this space despite lots of brilliant people trying,” said Foraker. “I’m most proud of the fact that we built a really strong brand that consumers trust and that is making their lives better — and we’re just getting started.”
Around that same time, Garner and her manager were searching for a business opportunity to join in the early stages. They had been looking for a while when a friend mentioned Once Upon A Farm. After the initial conversation it was a no-brainer. Garner immediately recognized how these products offered a solution to a struggle she experienced with her own children when they were younger. And seeing Foraker’s name on the angel investor list only solidified her gut instinct that this was a business worth backing. After one call it was decided that the three of them would join forces to take Once Upon A Farm to the next level.
As a co-founder and chief brand officer of Once Upon A Farm, Garner is fully immersed in the company and its mission. Whether she’s working with the sales and marketing teams, taste testing new products, or enhancing community engagement — Garner truly cares and takes part in it all.
“When it comes to raising the level of nutrition for all kids, our hearts come first. It’s great that families are able to purchase Once Upon A Farm products from Whole Foods but making those same products accessible to
“I so badly wanted to be able to just go to the store and buy something fresh and convenient that were like these amazing recipes I was making at home.” - said Curtis.
children living in food deserts is even greater,” said Garner. “We want to ensure that nutrition is heading in the right direction for kids across America.”
This speaks to the fact that while most companies pride themselves on their unique selling points, Once Upon A Farm sets themselves apart with their unique selling priorities. Their unwavering commitment to sourcing USDA Certified Organic and NON-GMO Project verified ingredients has made them the first baby and kids food brand to receive the Clean Label Purity Award. What this means is that when Once Upon A Farm’s products were tested for the presence of over 400 different contaminants including heavy metals, chemicals, pesticides, and other toxins, Clean Label Project determined they met their highest purity standard.
However, it’s about more than what’s not in the food — the quality of ingredients that are being used is equally as important. Once Upon A Farm recipes are free from preservatives, added colors or flavors, refined sugars, or words that are impossible to pronounce. The company consistently delivers the highest quality and taste by partnering with trusted organic farms, including Garner’s family farm. Keeping in mind that the world is constantly evolving, Once Upon A Farm makes sure to re-evaluate their process based on the latest studies in order to
continue creating products that meet or exceed current requirements. When you have something mom and dad feel amazing about and kids love, you know it’s a winner.
“The consumer response has been absolutely phenomenal from the very beginning. When I first started out sampling at farmer’s markets or making deliveries out of my van, parents were so appreciative,” said Curtis. “They loved that we had incorporated veggies into every product and found a way to make it taste great. It was the convenience without compromise they had been looking for all along.”
The very first product that Curtis created in her kitchen was the green kale and apple fruit and veggie blend. The initial recipe and iteration of that blend is the same one used today and it happens to be the best selling product in the entire Once Upon A Farm portfolio. A number of the current SKUs are the original ones Curtis made for her daughter, proving that tasty nutrition stands the test of time.
With all the beneficial attributes, what matters most is that kids love Once Upon A Farm, which makes parents love it even more. And as they continue to innovate
and develop new products, the brand has proven its innate knack for identifying opportunities and challenges begging to be overcome.
It always made perfect sense for someone to tackle the dry baby food market and to make sure it’s as low as possible in lead, sugar, preservatives, colors, etc. Staying true to their reputation, the company delivered a delicious solution with the introduction of Once Upon A Farm Organic Baby & Toddler Pantry Snacks, which includes Fruit & Veggie Puffs, Coconut Melts, and Tractor Wheels™ Toddler Soft-Baked Bars.
As pioneers in the kids fresh snacking space, the company released their Refrigerated Oat Bars around the same time. These first of its kind bars are made with real fruit and veggie, fueled with 100% whole grain oats and drizzled with a no-added sugar icing that is a whole new level of yummy. Parents have quickly realized they can’t go wrong with any of the three delicious varieties: Strawberry, Banana Chocolate and Apple Cinnamon.
And last but not least, they have most recently added a line of new A2/ A2 whole milk shakes and smoothies made with organic grass-based dairy. With the intention of filling the gap that exists in the current overly sweetened dairy products for kids, these no-sugar added creamy pouches of goodness come with countless benefits.
“A2/A2 milk is becoming increasingly important as parents are finding it’s easier for their children to digest than regular milk, which has an A1 dairy protein,” said Curtis. “Parents are also really looking for ways to
“When it comes to raising the level of nutrition for all kids, great that families are able to purchase Once Upon A Farm products from Whole Foods but making those same products accessible to children living in food deserts is even greater,” said Garner.
ensure their kids are getting the many nutritional benefits for growth and development offered by dairy products such as Vitamin B12 and calcium…our milk shakes and smoothies make achieving that goal easier.”
Everything Once Upon A Farm does keeps little ones and their parents in mind. As business partners and fellow entrepreneurs, Curtis, Foraker, and Garner have many things in common with one of the main ones being their passion for making a positive impact on a larger scale. So it should come as no surprise that they were the first fresh baby food brand made available for the WIC™ program. Actively working to gain authorization in additional states, their values have continued to fuel actions, including their A Million Meals program in partnership with the non-profit Save the Children. Together, they’ve pledged to distribute 1,000,000 nutritious meals to children in food-insecure communities across America.
Once Upon A Farm has a great partnership with Save The Children. Garner has been working with that organization since 2008 and has been a board member for most of that time. The organization serves kids who are growing up in poverty, live in underserved communities or completely lack access to resources for nutritional food. Garner recalled the humbling experience she had while in Central Valley California. One of the local food bank employees came to
ask Garner if she knew that Once Upon A Farm was feeding babies up and down the entire valley. Realizing the only fresh fruit and vegetables these children get is because of the company Curtis, Foraker, and Garner had worked so hard to build was the most incredible feeling.
“Our mission is to drive systemic change in childhood nutrition for a happier, healthier and more equitable world. Very few companies get to where we are in this space despite lots of brilliant people trying,” said Foraker. “I’m most proud of the fact that we built a really strong brand that consumers trust and that is making their lives better — and we’re just getting started.”
Without a doubt, new products and categories are in the future for Once Upon A Farm as they continue to pave the way for what’s possible in the baby and kid food industry. It will be everything consumers have come to know and love about the brand, only with a wider reach. At the end of the day, Once Upon A Farm is driven by their belief that every child deserves a happier and healthier ever after.
To learn more about the Once Upon A Farm story and mission, check out their site.
Looking to purchase any or all of the Once Upon A Farm products? Visit their online store.
"We've been overjoyed by the consumer and retailer response thus far, and we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Walmart to launch nationwide in the Checkout aisle!,”
- said Founder and CEO, Katie Lefkowitz.
Finally, a superfood-infused candy bar that is 100% plant-based with no sugar added. Harken Sweets is an upstart confectionary brand, which boasts unmatched taste that’s non-GMO, plant-based, vegan chocolate made from dates and oat chocolate. Their two core flavors, The Crunchy One and The Nutty One, will now be available in-store at checkout aisles and at Walmart. com.
“We’ve been overjoyed by the consumer and retailer response thus far, and we are thrilled to announce our partnership with Walmart to launch nationwide in the Checkout aisle!,” said Founder and CEO, Katie Lefkowitz. “Our goal is to provide healthy, simpler alternatives for our childhood-favorite candy, and make those options accessible to all of our consumers on retail shelves nationwide.”
The brand was born when Katie Lefkowitz, former COO of Caulipower and lifelong Snickers fanatic, had to look for other options due to health concerns and gut health issues. After finding none that measured up, she began to create a truly milk-style chocolaty
coating reminiscent of something you’d see in a classic candy bar, and chose to utilize dates—AKA “nature’s candy” because they’re high in antioxidants, fiber, and important minerals like magnesium and potassium— which have a natural sweetness and gooey texture, making them the perfect alternative for a sugar-free, plant-based treat. The bars are also available in KeHE, UNFI, ShopRite, Fairway, Gourmet Garage, McCaffrey’s, PopUp Grocer, Better Health Markets, and directto-consumer. The brand’s move into Walmart is the natural next step, serving as a catalyst and amplifying Harken’s commitment to furthering holistic wellbeing and making healthier alternatives more accessible to consumers.
Harken Sweets aims to reimagine the nostalgia of the chocolate bars that consumers grew up eating with ingredients that are nutrition-dense and healthy for you. One candy bar is 150 calories or less and boasts an excellent source of Prebiotic Fiber with no added or artificial sugars. Both bars feature a salted caramel date center and a creamy, oat chocolaty coating.
To learn more about Harken Sweets, please visit our website or Instagram.
The Secret Ingredient to Staying Private
How an ESOP Can Preserve and Enhance Your Brand Legacy
When a business owner considers their succession options, they usually assume their best option is to either transfer ownership to reliable family members or sell to a third party, such as a competitor or private equity. However, an alternate sale option is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
What is an ESOP?
An ESOP is a qualified employee benefit retirement plan that allocates company stock to employees over time. Our free whitepaper describes more of the transaction mechanics, but key benefits of the ESOP include a structure that preserves the management & employee base, the culture, and the seller’s legacy. In addition, an ESOP provides a new tax advantage for the company. In a 100% company pays no federal or state (in most states) corporate income tax. This tax advantage empowers the company reinvest its profits into the business, pay down debt and invest in growth.
The ESOP structure avoids the operational disruption and/or consolidation which can result
in a sale to a competitor. For selling shareholders, the ESOP transaction can provide significant liquidity while retaining the opportunity for future value realization. Moreover, certain tax deferral opportunities may exist for eligible selling shareholders. But for many business owners, a key determinant is the substantial retirement benefit and wealth creation opportunity provided to the employees who have helped build and grow their business.
ESOPs in Action
Companies such as Clif Bar and New Belgium Brewing epitomize the transformative impact of ESOPs. When Clif Bar announced the ESOP program in 2010, the sellers said they “wanted to create a company where we would want to work.”
Adding, “Employee ownership is one more way we could run a different kind of business: one that inspires a team of people to make the kind of delicious, nutritious food we’d like to eat, and that strives for a healthier, International for $2.9 billion.
New Belgium Brewing implemented an ESOP in 2000 and expanded the structure to be 100% ESOP-owned in 2012. When the company sold to Japan’s Kirin Holdings in 2019, it provided significant retirement balances to its employees, letting them share in the company’s success.
A recent study found that ESOP-owned foodcompanies and their employees experienced key advantages in workforce retention, benefits, retirement security, and firm performance when compared to non-ESOP food companies. Other research has discovered that productivity improves by on average in the year an ESOP is adopted, and that 91% of ESOP workers feel they can live comfortably in retirement compared to only 49% of non-ESOP retirees.
ESOPs are common in a number of food industry sectors, especially supermarkets. ESOP-owned supermarket companies include Publix, with over 220,000 employees; Winco, with over 20,000; Brookshire Brothers, with over 16,000; and Houchens with over Schreiber Foods, with over 9,000 employees, is one of the largest private-label dairy manufacturers in the world; KeHe Foods, with over distributors. ESOPs are found in a number the largest convenience store chains, including Wawa, Stewarts Shops, and PDQ.
Navigating Private Equity
While private equity remains a viable option for business owners, its short-term investment horizon and cost-focused strategies may not align with the long-term vision of certain businesses. With a typical investment horizon of years, PE can provide immediate value to its investors by rationalizing costs in target companies. Cost centers from employee headcount to vendors to raw materials will be evaluated – particularly in the era of heightened inflationary pressures.
In 2021, PE funds acquired a record 786 food and beverage manufacturers worth $32 billion, according to the Wall Street Journal. The food industry is generally considered recession-resistant and less susceptible to economic downturns than other sectors, making it an attractive investment for PE firms seeking stable returns. But those acquisitions faced challenges due to increased labor costs, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures. PE funds use a significant amount of debt to pay for their acquisitions: debt which was heavily impacted by increased interest rates. Since 2021, PE appetite for food & beverage has subsided and the ESOP has returned as a resilient alternative: ensuring continuity and stability amidst evolving market dynamics.
For many business owners, determining the best exit strategy can be a complex and stressful challenge. Owners should engage with an ESOP expert to carefully walk them through the process and to understand their full range of options. Doing so will unlock value for all parties while ensuring a strategic and equitable path forward for employees.
Carter Smith
Carter Smith is a Vice President with ButcherJoseph & Co.’s investment banking team. He has been involved in a variety of transactions including mergers and acquisitions, valuation advisory, and leveraged recapitalizations. His investment banking experience includes engagements for a broad range of industries including manufacturing, business services, industrial, and construction.
Carter has been recognized as a Best in Business: BEST M&A Provider (Top 5) in St. Louis by the readers of Small Business Monthly and as an Emerging Leader by The M&A Advisor. Carter is a Director of the DESSH Foundation, a 501(c)(3) that supports patients with DeSanto-Shinawi Syndrome (DESSH): building awareness for the newly discovered condition and supporting its medical research. He also sits on the Advisory Board of the Show-Me Institute, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to advancing liberty with responsibility by promoting market solutions for Missouri public policy.
After completing secondary education at Eton College in Berkshire, England, Carter earned a Bachelor of Arts in biology from Princeton University. He also holds a Master of Business Administration degree in entrepreneurship and marketing from Washington University’s Olin School of Business.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Sale transactions to strategic or financial buyer
Advisory Board Member of The Missouri Center for Employee
Key Sector Focus Manufacturing Business Services
Geoff Coltman, Senior Vice President of Catena Solutions
The food & beverage (F&B) industry has always been a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, characterized by shifting consumer preferences, regulatory changes and technological advancements. In recent years, the industry has witnessed significant transformations, driven by the need for companies to stay competitive in an increasingly complex marketplace. One of the key transformations has been the rise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) as organizations seek to maintain their competitive edge. With M&A activity in the F&B industry increasing by 6.5% to 212 deals in the last fiscal quarter of 2023, organizations are beginning to notice M&A interest is once again rising as the sector continues to experience a strategic shift. The recent uptick in M&A activity reflects a broader trend of companies reshaping their strategies to prioritize growth through acquisitions. As we enter the second half of 2024 and look ahead to 2025, we can expect M&A activity and trends to continue to evolve, with companies seeking innovative ways to enhance their competitive edge.
As companies secure more deals and look to combine the merged entities, while the deal itself is undoubtedly top of mind, it is crucial for F&B leaders not to overlook the importance of having comprehensive, real-time visibility into their supply chains to ensure seamless integration and mitigate risks. It is essential to recognize the challenges that come with integrating newly acquired entities and how they will impact their supply chain since production disruptions and delays, compliance issues and improper employee communication can all derail a successful merger or acquisition. Once a deal is finalized, real-time visibility into a company’s supply chain is important to mitigate these issues before they arise. This visibility allows companies to make quick, informed decisions, limit disruptions and identify potential risks before they escalate. However, as companies prepare to potentially increase their M&A activity and now think about their supply chains, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to achieve successful results postmerger.
It is essential to recognize the challenges that come with integrating newly acquired entities and how they will impact their supply chain since production disruptions and delays, compliance issues and improper employee communication can all derail a successful merger or acquisition.
System and Process Integration
Companies must integrate their supply chain systems and processes to ensure the success of a merged entity and, ultimately, optimize operations. However, the integration process is complex and demands meticulous planning, so companies need to take the right steps to prepare. These steps involve assessing existing systems, standardizing processes, standardizing and integrating master data, fostering collaboration, providing training and managing change effectively.
Additionally, utilizing advanced tools and technologies can help facilitate seamless integration, ensuring smooth data flow and process alignment across the combined supply chain. Tools like planning software, data integration solutions and collaboration platforms streamline the integration process, facilitating seamless communication and coordination. By following these steps and leveraging appropriate technologies, companies can enhance operational efficiency, responsiveness, and overall competitiveness in the marketplace.
Change Management Strategy
When a company acquires another, employees from both sides experience significant transformation and potential disruption in their day-to-day routines. Effective supply chain change management is paramount to navigating the complexities of integration smoothly as it can help mitigate resistance. Managing change can also help to minimize disruption to operations and maximize the potential collaboration of the combined entities. Overall, providing ample time for employees to process the news and being transparent about the impact on their work builds trust and relevance. Strategies such as transparent communication, involving employees in the integration process and providing training programs are crucial for securing employee buyin and facilitating smooth transitions. By prioritizing change management, F&B companies can mitigate resistance, maintain morale, and ultimately achieve successful integration postmerger or acquisition.
The F&B industry is set for continued transformation through M&A activity, and as we enter the second half of 2024, it’s imperative that the industry prepare itself and its supply chains for potential activity. This involves assessing current capabilities, enhancing flexibility and building resilience into operations. By proactively addressing these considerations, companies can position themselves for successful M&A outcomes. With the right strategies and expert guidance, companies can navigate this complex landscape and emerge stronger, more competitive and better equipped to meet the demands of the future.
80% of employees in restaurant and food service industries report feeling burned out.
Create healthier and more engaged employees with Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) at Work for Restaurants, from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
MHFA at Work for Restaurants ofers industry-specific visuals, statistics and scenarios to teach employees how to recognize and respond to factors, signs and symptoms of mental health or substance use challenges associated with the restaurant industry.
Nature-Inspired Culinary Ventures Come Alive at Pasque and
Stellar Jay in the
Populus Hotel
Populus, the nation’s first carbon positive hotel, proudly announces Ian Wortham as Executive Chef for its two new culinary ventures: Pasque and Stellar Jay.
Opening this summer in Denver, Populus has gained national recognition for its distinctive aspen tree-inspired architecture by Studio Gang and its innovative approach to sustainability – both of which will be thoughtfully reflected within its newly revealed dining experiences.
Pasque, located on Populus’ “forest floor”, will serve as a buzzing all-day dining destination, serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar menus comprised of seasonally driven, nature-based cuisine. Its warm and natural ambiance, inspired by the elegant Colorado Pasque wildflower, will provide an inviting space for guests to connect and savor dishes that celebrate the region’s finest ingredients. Featuring an array of vegetable forward dishes and regionally sourced proteins from the land and sea, complemented by classic cocktails and family-owned wines, the menu will highlight the earth’s bounty and let the ingredients speak for themselves.
“Pasque and Stellar Jay are inspired by the elegance and beauty of nature,”
- says Chef Ian Wortham
Stellar Jay, located on the open-air rooftop “canopy” of Populus, will offer a vibrant dining experience with bold shared plates and ingredients transformed by the power of the open flame. The restaurant, a playful nod to the Steller’s Jay bird and the stellar experience afforded at the new venue, will feature a blend of indoor and outdoor seating, allowing diners to be immersed in the breathtaking views of Denver’s skyline and the Rocky Mountains. The menu will elevate fresh ingredients with live-fire cooking, from wild game to classic meats and seafood to fresh produce. Cocktails will be equally lively and bright, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings and celebrations.
Chef Wortham, renowned in Colorado for his imaginative, ingredient-driven food, previously worked as the Chef de Cuisine at Frasca Food and Wine in Boulder, the Executive Chef of Tavernetta in Denver, and at various hotels within Aparium Hotel Group’s award-winning portfolio, including Kansas City’s Crossroads Hotel, and Denver’s Clayton Hotel & Members Club, a MICHELIN One Key hotel. Chef Wortham’s culinary philosophy, heavily influenced by his transformative travels in Italy and Europe, will emphasize a nature-based approach by utilizing the freshest ingredients in harmony with the seasons and championing local producers. Joining Chef Wortham is Curtis Landrum, Populus’ Director of Food and Beverage. The duo previously worked under Colorado’s renowned Frasca Hospitality Group and together at Denver’s acclaimed Tavernetta and have reunited to bring their extensive culinary and hospitality talents to Pasque and Stellar Jay.
“Pasque and Stellar Jay are inspired by the elegance and beauty of nature,” says Chef Ian Wortham. “We’re proud to create food that not only celebrates the flavors, aromas, and artistry of our natural world, but makes you feel good knowing it is sourced and prepared thoughtfully.”
Aligned with Populus’ carbon positive approach, which sequesters more carbon than it emits throughout its lifetime to leave the planet in a better place, both restaurants are designed with sustainability at the forefront. Chef Wortham and the team will work with local or family-owned companies over large conglomerates to make sure that all ingredients are the outcome of profound care, thoughtfully created by experts who know and respect the land. To combat food waste, Populus will be the first restaurant in downtown Denver to utilize unique “Food Cycling’’ technology from BioGreen360, which diverts 100% of food waste away from landfills and into all-natural compost to be distributed to and used by local farmers. This cycle takes the food from farm to table in sourcing, then back from table to farm with composting, establishing a circular solution for food waste.
Pasque and Stellar Jay will open this summer along with along with a Coffee Bar and walk-up window, flexible lounge and event spaces, a private dining room, and Populus’ 265 modern guest rooms – all of which are managed by Aparium Hotel Group, a pioneer in the lifestyle hospitality industry.
“We’re proud to create food that not only celebrates the favors, aromas, and artistry of our natural world, but makes you feel good knowing it is sourced and prepared thoughtfully.”
- says Chef Ian Wortham
YOU STEP INTO YOUR KITCHEN EACH DAY READY TO START ANEW. PREP THE STATIONS. REVIEW THE SCHEDULE. FIRE UP THE STOVETOP. EACH ACT CARRIED OUT WITH PURPOSE. YOU’VE CURATED A MENU, CREATED A SPACE AND BUILT A REPUTATION. AS A CHEF AND RESTAURANTER, YOUR FOOD IS YOUR IDENTITY. AS YOU BEGIN COOKING, YOU REACH FOR THE INGREDIENTS THAT WILL BRING IT ALL TO LIFE. MAKE SURE THOSE INGREDIENTS ARE MADE WITH A SIMILAR SENSE OF PURPOSE — TO PROVIDE THE BEST FLAVORS WHILE DOING GOOD FOR THE WORLD.
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR KITCHEN. MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD.
Creating great food is all about where you start — with quality ingredients that taste delicious and give back.
With Frontier Co-op®, it literally starts from the ground up — working with farmers across the globe to provide responsibly sourced products that beneft both the planet and the people who live on it. What began with two people and a clear mission has grown to a global presence. It goes beyond simply farming herbs and spices and cultivating soil; it’s about betering the communities in which they’re grown and nurturing the land. And through that commitment, ensuring every product you use is pure and of the highest quality.
IT DOESN’T GET BETTER THAN THIS.
YYour patrons expect the best, looking forward to authentic food that’s all your own. Exceed their expectations with distinctive favors from Frontier Co-op.®
Make an experience out of every bite and sip when you elevate your dishes and drinks with fresh, pure and sustainably sourced spices, herbs, teas, extracts and seasoning blends. Frontier Coop® sources from around the world to bring the best to your restaurant. Each of their seasonings carries a story, and every spice has substance.
Whether it’s robust organic turmeric, cardamom and allspice from Guatemala, the sweetness of Fair Trade Ceylon cinnamon
from Sri Lanka or the versatility of Kumaon black tea harvested along the majestic Himalayans, there is never a doubt that you’re cooking with the fnest. And with their array of oferings, you can buy a pinch or a pound to suit your needs.
Invigorate your menu, fnd new inspiration and support a brand commited to good favors and doing good, works.
EVERY CHEF DESERVES THE BEST.
The dishes and drinks you serve begin as a curated combination of ingredients — hand selected to produce the aromas, tastes and textures people love.
Take your favors to the next level.
Responsibly sourced products from Frontier Co-op® bring distinction and authenticity to everything you create — from signature sauces and mouth-watering entrées to decadent desserts and crafed beverages. Enhance all your menu items while enriching the Earth.
EXCEPTIONAL FLAVOR. RESPONSIBLY SOURCED.
This has always been about more than food.
The best meals carry meaning, bringing us together around what maters. That’s especially true when those meals begin with responsible sourcing that helps people and the planet. Cooking with Frontier Co-op® guarantees that everything on the fnal plate is served with a sense of pride and purpose, delivering on a promise.
When you choose authentic, responsibly sourced spices from a brand that aligns with your values and fuels your creativity in the kitchen, you make a diference — one favorful meal at a time.
Bay State Milling Company
Bay State Milling Company’s HealthSense® High-Fiber Wheat Flour was awarded the prestigious Heart-Check Certification from the American Heart Association in 2024. Made from a unique varietal of non-GMO, high-amylose wheat, HealthSense harnesses the natural power of wheat in a flour that has 10x the fiber plus the versatility, taste, and texture of traditional white flour. More than 95% of Americans are fiber deficient –getting less than half the daily recommended amount to optimize gut, immune and cardiovascular health – and HealthSense offers an easy option for people to increase their daily fiber intake. HealthSense® High-Fiber Wheat Flour is available for food service and commercial manufacturing.
B.T.R. NATION
Ashley Nickelson created B.T.R. NATION after watching both of her parents battle rare forms of cancer and seeing endless snacks that claimed to be “better-for-you” in the hospital. She set on a mission to create truly clean, transparent, & low in sugar snacks, with a % of all proceeds going towards cancer research and awareness. The Superfood Nut Butter Bar in Cinnamon Cookie Dough Energy tastes like a cinnamon roll & cookie dough had a baby. With 8g of plant protein, 150 calories, NO added sugar, NO sugar alcohols, NO stevia, 7g fiber, Maca, cordyceps & cinnamon for energy, Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, soy free, no junk! REAL ingredients & Registered Dietitian approved. B.T.R. NATION products are both Registered Dietitian & doctor-approved, instilling confidence about what you’re eating. Committed to the highest quality of ingredients, B.T.R. products exclude gluten, dairy, soy, whey, corn, rice, GMO’s, artificial and natural flavors, sugar alcohols, stevia, inflammatory additives like maltodextrin, gums, fillers, and anything you can’t pronounce.
Brekki
Made with only the best ingredients, including ancient grains, almonds, oats, chia seeds, almond milk, and organic coconut nectar, Brekki offers a nutritious and convenient option for everyone. Available in a variety of delicious flavors such as Original, Vanilla Cinnamon, Dark Chocolate, Bananas + Maple Brown Sugar and Cold Brew Coffee, there’s a flavor to satisfy every palate. Each container is rich in fiber and provides 7 grams of protein, making it a perfect choice for a healthy breakfast, mid-day snack, or light meal. With Brekki, enjoying a nutritious and delicious meal is as easy as peel, stir, and enjoy!
Cadence™
Cadence™ is a first-of-its-kind performance brand harnessing the power of salt for performance and hydration. Founded in 2024 by Ross MacKay and George Heaton, the mission of Cadence™ is to bring the highest quality, science-backed ingredients and formulas to those that need them most: from world class athletes to leaders in business. The optimisation focus of all Cadence™ formulas is hydration, with salt as the core ingredient of all product innovations. A previously demonized compound, Cadence™ aims to change the narrative around salt, through its science-backed utilization in products to yield the highest return for consumers in physical and mental caliber. With zero carbohydrates, zero sugar, and no caffeine, Cadence provides a hydrating solution that can be used at any point in the day. Cadence is available in a refreshing Citrus Flavor.
Cedar’s Foods
Cedar’s Foods, a family-owned Mediterranean brand, offers a range of authentically crafted and tasty products perfect for any occasion. One standout is their Spicy Pepper Feta Dip – Tyrokafteri, an icon of Greek cuisine that brings the perfect amount of spice to your meal. This dip combines the creamy texture of feta with a spicy kick, making it an essential addition to any summer spread. Cedar’s commitment to highquality, fresh ingredients and zero preservatives ensures every bite is both delicious and wholesome.
Copper Moon Coffee
Copper Moon Coffee’s Swiss Water® decaf coffee is great for when you love coffee, but don’t want the caffeine. It is decaffeinated naturally using the Swiss Water® process. Copper Moon Coffee starts with small batches of USDA Organic Certified coffee beans, using the elements of water while monitoring both time and temperature until the coffee is 99.9% caffeine-free.
Evo Hemp Bars
Evo Hemp Bars are made from a delicious combination of cashews, protein crisps, and the world’s most nutritionally complete superfood, hemp seeds. With 12 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per bar, Evo Hemp Bars pack a nutritious punch to fuel your day! Gluten-free and vegan, the bars are available in 5 tasty flavor combinations, including new Matcha Latte, Cookie Dough, Brownie Chip, Lemon and Birthday Cake.
Four Sigmatic
Four Sigmatic’s new line of five Organic Instant Teas powered by functional mushrooms and adaptogens offer a delicious and simple way to add focus, calm, immunity, positive mood, and gut support to your daily routine. Four Sigmatic’s Happy Gut Organic Instant Tea – which helps support gut health and digestion – is made with ginger, lemon, turkey tail mushrooms, yacon and probiotics without added sugar, stevia or artificial flavors. Happy Gut is offered in a unique, easy-to-prepare, multi-serve format without tea bags or sachets, and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Good Culture
Good Culture’s Certified Organic Cottage Cheese, LowFat Classic 2% is made with milk from pasture-raised cows on family farms, and with no artificial ingredients, gums, stabilizers, thickeners, or carrageenans. Not only does this cottage cheese deliver superior flavor, but it’s also high in protein with 14g per serving, contains live and active cultures, and features soft, small curds. In addition to an elevated texture experience, this offering is formulated with taste and nutrition at the forefront. Enjoy it on your favorite toast, in pasta sauce, and much more!
Durable & Reliable
Maintain meal freshness and integrity with Clover™ hinged containers
GORGIE
GORGIE’s product stands out from the rest with its emphasis on not only being a better looking energy drink, but better for you and with benefits too! GORGIE’s products are erythritol, sucralose and aspartame-free. Each can of GORGIE contains the perfect amount of 150mg green tea caffeine, 0g of sugar, L-theanine, Biotin, B6 and B12! The Sparkling Paradise Punch combines the right amount of fruit punch flavor and fizz.
Goode Health
The Goode Health Ultimate Superfood Nutrition Shake stands out amidst the myriad of green shakes and smoothie supplements available on the market as it is clinically proven to improve vascular health, inflammation, cholesterol level, and stress in as little as two weeks. The precisely formulated combination of nutrient-rich superfoods, plant protein and prebiotic fiber contains no fillers, sugar, or saturated fatsmaximizing the nutrients you get while minimizing the calories. The smoothie blend is available in three flavors: Moroccan Chocolate, Vanilla Spice, or Unsweetened. Additionally, customers have the option to customize their blend with up to four different superfood boosts targeting immune support, metabolism, vascular health, and/or recovery.
HOIST
Staying hydrated can improve brain function, mood and mental state. It also prevents dehydration symptoms like fatigue and lightheadedness. This is why it’s crucial to make hydration a daily priority, especially during the height of summer and soaring temperatures. This is why HOIST offers its unique and performance-driven hydration formula. Its isotonic, scientifically-balanced blend of carbohydrates, electrolytes and water allows for swift electrolyte recovery and fluid replenishment. The HOIST formula is so effective, it’s one of three electrolyte sources approved for use by the U.S. Department of Defense. Whether in bottles, powder sticks or liquid pouches, HOIST delivers IV-level hydration whenever needed. Pay attention to thirst signals and choose HOIST to stay hydrated and move at peak health, especially during the scorching summer months.
Joydays
Jovial Foods
Crafted in Italy using time-honored production methods, Jovial Foods Organic Gluten-Free Brown Rice Fusilli offers a gluten-free option that rivals traditional pasta in taste & texture. Not only does Jovial Foods’ Brown Rice Fusilli deliver superior flavor, but it also provides a wholesome choice with 57g of whole grains per serving. Free from grains, gluten, gums, & lectins, its firm texture holds up beautifully with various sauces, making it a versatile & nutritious option for culinary creations, like healthy one-pot pastas. In addition to an elevated texture experience, Jovial Foods’ pastas are certified glyphosate-free by The Detox Project. This product is a healthconscious option made with only one organic ingredient, brown rice flour. The Brown Rice Fusilli is pressed with bronze dies, a technique passed down through pasta artisans, allowing sauces & oils to cling to the pasta. Jovial Foods takes pride in slow-drying the pasta at low temperatures, ensuring an elevated flavor.
Joydays’ mission, driven by founder Amy Cohn’s personal health journey, is to revolutionize the food industry by offering delicious, accessible snacks that support blood sugar balance and foster positive habit changes without stigmatizing consumers. We are witnessing a major shift in the food landscape, focusing more on specific health and medical concerns rather than general “healthy” options. Chronic conditions affect a vast majority of the population, yet contemporary brands often overlook these market segments. Notably, 51% of the US population has prediabetes or diabetes, with a 95% increase in Type 2 Diabetes among youth in the past 15 years. In food deserts, convenient, blood sugar-friendly snacks are scarce, forcing people to choose indulgent options. With about 20% of meals consumed in cars, there’s a need for better on-the-go choices. Inspired by insights from 3000 individuals with diabetes, Joydays collaborates with dieticians, doctors, and chefs to create snacks that don’t spike blood sugar.
Juiced Gelato
“Juiced Gelato”—the first “cold-pressed” gelato crafted from farm-fresh, organic produce, without added sugar or dairy. Developed in collaboration with Italian Gelato Expert Cristiano Rossi, this innovative product combines the creamy texture of traditional gelato with the vibrant flavors of Juice Generation’s iconic cold-pressed juices. With flavors like Supa Dupa Greens, Get Your Green On, Citrus Super C, and Spicy Lemon, plus unique creations like Celery, and Carrot-AppleBeet, Juice Generation’s newest innovation is the perfect treat for summer that also reflects the brand’s passion for wellness and health-centric indulgences. They’ve also crafted Crunch Cones, made from upcycled, organic coldpressed juice pulp, combined with chickpea and lentil flours, to create a sustainable and delicious twist on a traditional ice cream cone.
Kencko
Karma
Discover the next level of digestive health, immune support, and hydration with Karma Probiotic Water. This groundbreaking beverage delivers a powerful 2 billion active probiotic cultures—over 10 times the amount found in typical yogurt. The secret? Karma’s patented PushCap technology. Unlike other probiotic drinks where active ingredients degrade over time, Karma’s innovative design guarantees maximum nutritional benefits with every sip by isolating the shelf-stable BC30 strain and vitamins until activation. Free from artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, and preservatives, and enriched with six essential vitamins, Karma offers a delicious and dependable way to support your digestive and immune systems. Available in five refreshing flavors, Karma Probiotic Water is nonGMO, gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan, and kosher.
kencko is a on-the-go instant smoothie brand that makes replicating your favorite smoothies effortless! No blender or frozen fruit needed –- just a nifty packet and the complimentary bottle to enjoy anytime, anywhere. With wellness and sustainability at its core, kencko’s smoothies are packed with fruit and vegetables, offering a boost to your daily diet while also being kind to the planet through eco-friendly packaging and reduced food waste. The brand’s Greens collection is a pick-me-up packed with vitamin C to support skin health and immunity plus gut-friendly fiber that contributes to a flourishing gut-microbiome. Ingredients include organic pineapple, banana, apple, kiwi, spinach, kale, ginger, and apple fiber. Each kencko smoothie is made from at least 200g of fresh, organic produce, and contains 2.5 of your recommended five daily cups of fruits and vegetables.
Mood Bars
Inspired by her patients, psychiatrist Carly Snyder realized she could fill a hole in the nutritional market armed with her understanding of physiological changes and resulting mood fluctuations. Dr. Carly’s goal was travel-friendly 100% plantbased, organic, kosher, and gluten-free snack bars created from functional, whole food ingredients with nutritional and physiological benefits formulated with a dream team of highly knowledgeable specialists. Three mood-enhancing flavors: NOURISH, to replenish iron and fiber, stimulating metabolism, promoting energy and focus; AWAKEN, to clear mental haze and remedy low energy, a natural boost without the buzz and SOOTHE, to ease tension, naturally calming the body back to baseline.
NOVA
NOVA’s Breakthrough is a holistic CBD and adaptogenic mushroom wellness drink mix made to improve performance, mood, focus, and energy. Each drink mix is Fruit Punch Flavored (7 packs per box) and contains 5mg Broad-Spectrum Premium CBD made from organicallygrown hemp, and PeakO2®, an certified-organic blend of U.S grown adaptogenic mushrooms including cordyceps, reishi, king trumpet, shiitake, lion’s mane, rhodiola, and turkey tail with each presenting their own unique benefits like immune support and cellular health. Breakthrough is also gluten-free, vegan and contains NO THC! Breakthrough nutrient-packed ingredients are also backed by clinical trials with 34 international patents, allowing it to work faster and longer with up to 10x absorption versus other delivery methods. Breakthrough is also NSF Certified for Sport®, meaning it’s been scientifically tested safe to protect athletes and helps consumers make more knowledgeable decisions when choosing supplements.
Odyssey
Odyssey provides a delicious, first-of-its-kind sparkling mushroom ready-to-drink beverage with unique flavor SKUs. Odyssey supports sustained energy without the crash with its mushroombased ready-to-drink beverage and is formulated with a groundbreaking blend of 2750mg of Lions Mane and Cordyceps and contains no added sugar or preservatives. Odyssey’s Passionfruit Orange Guava Core Sparkling Energy Drink contains 85mg of green tea caffeine for lasting vitality. The Passionfruit Orange Guava flavor is a tasty twist of tangy and tart tropical fruits to brighten each day!
Olio Piro
Olio Piro is a premium cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, imported fresh from Tuscany, that offers more than just exquisite taste. With its bold flavors and exceptional levels of antioxidants and polyphenols, Olio Piro infuses your dishes with a harmonious blend of green olive fruit, fresh-cut grass, and peppery finish, and a wealth of health benefits, including cardiovascular support, anti-inflammatory properties, brain support, and enhanced longevity.
PowKids
Raising powerful kids! Formulated by a Registered Dietitian and Chemist, PowKids was designed specifically for children to help kids get the nutrients they need for their growing bodies, according to their age. Available in two varieties, including Clear Protein in Passionberry and Chocolate, each protein powder is made with organic ingredients, boasts 18g grass fed whey protein, and contains no added sugar. In addition, each protein powder contains added choline to foster brain developmentperfect for keeping your kids fueled during the day! It’s simple, just add 1 scoop per 4-6oz of your choice of milk or juice. Shake until dissolved and enjoy!
OLIPOP
Launched in 2018, OLIPOP created the first healthy alternative to soda with only 2-5 grams of sugar and 9 grams of fiber. OLIPOP is non-GMO, paleo, vegan, and gluten-free and the brand’s Ginger Ale flavor provides the perfect elevated blend of citrus and mild spice for a better-for-you Ginger Ale option.
REBBL
REBBL Smoothie Starter™ transforms morning rituals, offering consumers an organic and convenient base to create nutrient-dense smoothies in seconds — without the mess. With just the simple additions of ice, fruit, or greens, users can quickly and seamlessly blend up a protein-packed and gut health-supporting smoothie to fuel their day. Offered in Coconut Milk and Oat Milk liquid base varieties, Smoothie Starter™ delivers 20 grams of plant-rich protein to kickstart the day and features amplified benefits through postbiotics to support gut health. One 32 oz. bottle makes four smoothies.
Rise & Puff
“We have food at home” has always been a parents’ favorite line when passing a drive-thru but, sometimes, nothing hits the spot quite like Taco Bell. If you’re trying to cut down on your favorite fast foods, affiliate-friendly brand Rise & Puff offers 10 delicious gourmet quesadillas which are all 300 calories or less and ready to eat in only 5 minutes! Created by a James Beard Award-winning chef, Rise & Puff quesadillas are made from only clean and natural ingredients. No unpronounceable junk included.
Recess Zero-Proof
Recess Zero Proof is a line of full-flavored craft mocktails for alcohol-free moments and social connection, designed to bring consumers’ experience from replacement to enhancement and help them feel calm, cool and collected. Watermelon “Mojito”: classic mojito mint joins forces with juicy watermelon flavor to deliver a refreshing take on a timeless classic Zero-Proof’s functional blend includes guayusa, a nootropic that provides a balanced boost and adaptogens like L-theanine & lemon balm providing Recess drinkers with an uplifting experience for social occasions. Each Zero-Proof can has 25 calories or less, 5g of sugar or less, is sweetened with agave, and made with real fruit.
Sidekick Soda
Sidekick Soda offers a refreshing alternative to traditional soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, all crafted with approximately half the daily recommended dose of apple cider vinegar, and New Zealand honey. Sidekick Soda Mango is fruity and has a sweet tangy flavor. This little soda is the fun, energetic and sharp-witted sidekick that will take you for a walk on the wild side and always keep things exciting.
SimplyProtein
SimplyProtein’s Crispy bars are a delicious, protein-packed and plantpowered bar made with simple, vegan ingredients, and are glutenfree, non-GMO and kosher certified. With 13g of protein, and 2g of sugar, these bars are designed to be the simple, honest go-to fuel for everybody on the go. SimplyProtein Crispy bars are available in three delicious flavors: classic Peanut Butter Chocolate, zesty and tart Lemon Coconut and decadent Dark Chocolate Almond. SimplyProtein Crispy bars are available in 4 & 8 packs. A tasty snack you can feel good about. Keep it Simplyfied.
Sodee Pop
Finally - a clean, alternative to mainstream soda that parents can offer their children and feel guilt free about! Created by a mom and nurse who cares what we put in our bodies, Sodee Pop does not contain high fructose corn syrup, dyes or artificial colors (the root beer is clear), or chemical preservatives. Orange Fizz is the ultimate fizzy delight for kids! Quench their thirst with this blend of sweet, smooth and bubbly organic orange juice and carbonated water packed into every 8oz. can. With a bright burst of flavor in every sip, Orange Fizz is the perfect treat for young taste buds seeking a refreshing adventure. Root Beer is a fizzy beverage that’s as pure as it is delicious! Imagine the classic root beer flavor you love, now in a pristine, transparent form! That’s right.... It’s clear! Say goodbye to artificial dyes and coloring because this clean soda brings all the flavor without any added extras, just carbonated water and organic root beer flavor.
SunnyGem
SunnyGem Almond Oil is an unrefined, cold-pressed and 100% virgin cooking oil made from a blend of the finest California almonds. The cold-press helps preserve the nutritional value and flavor so every bottle is packed with nutrients like vitamins E, B and flavonoids. In addition to being gluten-free, non-gmo, vegan and kosher, it’s also rich in monounsaturated fats. The low medium smoke point of 425F makes it a great choice to sauté, marinate, bake, dress, or finish dishes. The mild nutty and toasty flavor adds just a touch of sweetness without overpowering natural flavors.
Sweet Loren’s
Sweet Loren’s is plant-based, non-GMO, free of the top allergens (including eggs, gluten, dairy, peanuts, and tree nuts), and uses no sugar substitutes. Sweet Loren’s offerings span across a range of grocery classics including the brand’s beloved breakfast biscuits. Sweet Loren’s Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Biscuits make life sweeter with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Sweet Lorens’ Cinnamon Sugar Breakfast Biscuit is better-for-you than it’s traditional predecessor and is perfect for busy mornings or as a sweet snack any time of day.
Sunshine Provisions
Sunshine Provisions is the South Florida-based fine food purveyor that has earned praise from chefs and foodies alike for its premium chef-quality cuts, seafood, poultry, charcuterie, and pantry goods. Let Sunshine Provisions make your gift shopping easy with online ordering, overnight/ expedited delivery throughout the U.S., and a wide variety of Hand-Selected Premium Packages. This Summer, grab Sunshine Provisions’ Grill & Chill Pack (2pc) Racked Cooked Carsons Baby Back Pork Ribs, 2lb Chicken Wings, 4lb CBS Blend Burgers, (4pc) ¼lb Local Beef Hot Dogs, and 2.5lb Mild Italian Sausage Links.
That’s it.
Introducing That’s it. Pina Colada Blends Energy Bar. Energize your day with this fruit-forward mini bar made with clean, natural energy. Skip the sugary energy drinks and opt for our healthier alternative, crafted from REAL fruit. Each bar delivers the kick of a shot of espresso and contains just 70 calories. Made with only 4 organic ingredients, including caffeine from premium coffee, these bars are free from the top 12 allergens (except coconut), non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, plant-based, and Kosher. Enjoy the tantalizing flavors of pineapple and coconut, perfectly blended in every bite. Treat your taste buds to fruit bursting with energy with That’s it. Pina Colada Blends Energy Bars!
Three Wishes
Three Wishes, the family-owned and woman-run better-for-you breakfast brand, is thrilled to announce its first ever line extension with the addition of grain-free granola, available now! Born from the team’s quest for a grain-free and nutrient dense granola cluster cereal add-in, Three Wishes’ R&D quickly pivoted to a full line extension following the roaring results from several rounds of taste testing. Three Wishes Granola follows the brand’s ethos of being high in protein, low in sugar, and gluten- and grain-free. Utilizing nutritional ingredients like almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, monk fruit, and real maple syrup, the granola is as chock-full of flavor as it is healthy ingredients. Enjoyable as a convenient snack straight from the bag, in a bowl of milk, or layered in a decadent breakfast parfait, Three Wishes Granola draws on the brand’s commitment to making nutritious and nostalgic foods for children of all ages.
True Story Foods
For busy consumers looking for quick and convenient protein solutions, True Story Foods has introduced Protein Toppers diced chicken. Offering a full serving of protein (15 grams), the fullycooked diced chicken is a great shortcut if you’re looking to add chicken to pastas, wraps, quesadillas, salads, soups and more. It’s also an easy way to cut meal prep time in half. Available in three flavors—Oven Roasted, Roasted Garlic, and Teriyaki Sesame, Protein Toppers are produced with the True Story promise of humane raising, no antibiotics ever, and the use of only all-natural ingredients consumers find in their own kitchens. Protein Toppers are now available at Misfits Market, Fresh Thyme, New Seasons Market, Pete’s Market, Lassens, and many independent grocers.
UNREAL
Founded in 2010 by two brothers, searching for candy made with real ingredients, UNREAL is built on nostalgic, indulgent snacking that sets a new standard for ingredients and taste. All of UNREAL’s products are made with simple, organic ingredients and up to 51% less sugar than outdated, legacy brands. Launched earlier this year, UNREAL’s latest innovation, Dark Chocolate Covered Almonds, contain only two ingredients - nuts and chocolate - so consumers can finally ditch the high sugar content and mile-long ingredient lists. UNREAL’s Chocolate Covered Almonds were formulated so consumers don’t have to worry about weird waxy coatings or messy cocoa dust while on-the-go; they’re poppable, craveable, real-ingredient goodness that feels like a treat and satisfies like a snack.
Waterdrop
Waterdrop has revolutionized the beverage industry with the world’s first Microdrink: a conveniently-sized sugar-free hydration cube that dissolves in water and enriches it with natural extracts and essential vitamins. Thanks to conscious packaging, waterdrop reduces plastic consumption and CO2 emissions by 98% compared to traditional single-use plastic bottles. The plastic that houses each hydration cube to ensure freshness and flavor is fully recyclable—the plastic contained in a single cap of a traditional bottle is equivalent to 10 Microdrink blisters. Its best-selling collection? Iced Tea. Made with real tea, waterdrop’s Raspberry flavor is packed with sweetness and meets subtle floral undertones.
Wildbrine
Wildbrine’s Korean Style Kimchi is a gluten-free, vegan delight that offers all the rich, spicy flavors of traditional kimchi without fish sauce, sugar, or MSG. Wildbrine’s innovative recipe includes Korean peppers, sea veggies, and ginger, fermented to enhance natural flavors and health benefits. Kimchi is renowned not only for its bold taste but also for its significant health advantages. It’s low in calories and fat yet rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that support digestive health and boost immune function. The capsaicin in red pepper also aids in weight management and cholesterol control, while antioxidants in the ingredients reduce inflammation and exhibit anti-aging effects. Wildbrine’s Korean Style Kimchi is an excellent food choice for maintaining overall health and vitality, making it a perfect fit for any health-conscious diet.
Yoggies
Responding to the popularity and demand of its award-winning Probiotic Yoggies – by consumers and retailers -- Nature’s Garden revisits the trail mix category through the expansion of its Yoggies line. LemonBerry and Mixed Berry Probiotic Yoggies will now be incorporated into its newly launched Trail Mix Snack Packs, sold as an 18 count multi-pack, containing 1 oz pre-portioned snack packs. Each serving contains 3 grams of prebiotic fiber. Yoggies are real fruit pieces coated in creamy yogurt and infused with 2 billion live probiotic cultures via a patented microencapsulation system. Nature’s Garden’s probiotic strain --CFU Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG – is sourced from the industry market leader. This high-end strain, coupled with its unique delivery system, ensures that live probiotic cultures arrive to the gut unharmed. This promotes beneficial bacteria, which regulates gut balance and inflammation, and helps to boost immunity, as well as provide a multitude of other health benefits. Yoggies are certified gluten-free, non-GMO, do not contain corn syrup or artificial ingredients, and feature recyclable packaging.
– Hippocrates, Ancient Greek physician
PRECISION MATCHMAKING
SEAMLESSLY ALIGNING BUYERS WITH IDEAL SUPPLIERS
Brands like yours from around the world presenting products to a global audience of buyers from on premise operators, of-premise retail accounts, as well as distributors and importers through pre-scheduled, guaranteed meetings.
30 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE: MAKING CONNECTIONS THAT MATTER ON & OFF PREMISE ADULT BEVERAGE SESSION
September 15 - 17, 2024
Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa
Henderson, Nevada
